Sabarimala Gold Theft: TDB Ex-President in SIT Custody
Sabarimala gold theft update: SIT holds ex-TDB chief A. Padmakumar. Discover the legal facts and the severe spiritual cost of violating Deva Dravyam.
The Sabarimala gold theft case centers on the alleged misappropriation of gold-plated copper panels at the holy Ayyappa Temple.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has obtained custody of former TDB President A. Padmakumar to investigate claims that high-level officials falsified records to steal wealth dedicated to the Deity, violating the sacred trust of Deva Dravyam
1. The SIT Investigation: Facts of the Case
The Core Allegation: The inquiry focuses on the theft of gold-plated copper panels used for the Dwarapalaka (guardian deity) idols and the Sreekovil (sanctum sanctorum) door frames.
Latest Development: On November 26, 2025, the Inquiry Commissioner and Special Vigilance Judge, Kollam, granted the SIT custody of A. Padmakumar, former TDB President and CPI(M) leader.
The Charges:
- Falsification: Allegations state that records were falsified to mislabel gold-plated items as mere copper.
- Systematic Theft: Administrative loopholes were allegedly used to siphon wealth meant for the Deity.
- Breach of Trust: A grave violation by those appointed as Palakas (protectors).
2. Understanding Deva Dravyam: God’s Wealth
To grasp the severity of this event, we must look beyond the Indian Penal Code. Sabarimala is not a revenue entity; it is the Sannidhanam (Divine Presence) of Lord Dharma Sastha.
- Not Secular Revenue: Temple wealth is Deva Dravyam (Property of God).
- Purpose: It is intended for Dharma (sustenance) and Kainkarya (service), not Bhoga (human enjoyment).
- Stewardship: The TDB President is a custodian, not an owner. Misappropriation here is termed Sivadroha and Vishnudroha - a betrayal of millions of devotees who observe the 41-day Vrata.
3. What Scriptures Say About Temple Theft
Vedic texts classify the theft of temple property as a Mahapataka (Great Sin), especially when combined with the abuse of power.
The Isa Upanishad (Verse 1)
ishavasyam idam sarvam… ma gridhah kasya sviddhanam || “Do not covet what belongs to others.”
If coveting human wealth is wrong, coveting the Creator’s wealth is catastrophic.
The Agamas Warning: The Agamas state that Deva Dravyam is like fire. Stealing it destroys the thief’s lineage (Kula) because the gold carries the intense spiritual intent (Sankalpa) of the devotees.
The Bhagavad Gita (16.21)
trividham narakasyedam dvaram nashanam atmanah | kamah krodhas tatha lobhas tasmad etat trayam tyajet || “Lust, anger, and greed are the three gates to hell.”
The root cause here is Lobha (Greed), marking the onset of Adharma in the administration.
4. The Kali Yuga Connection: Leaders as Thieves
The arrest validates ancient prophecies regarding the current age, the Kali Yuga, where hypocrisy is rampant.
Srimad Bhagavatam (12.2.12-16)
dasyu-prayeshu rajasu “The rulers will become like thieves.”
When the Palaka (Protector) becomes the predator, the social contract breaks. However, this arrest proves the operation of Karma.
- Artha (Wealth) must be based on Dharma.
- Anartha (Calamity) follows when wealth is stolen.
Lord Ayyappa’s silence in Chinmudra was not ignorance; it was the gathering of evidence for the soul’s trial.
5. Spiritual Lessons for the Modern Devotee
How should we react to this news? Do not fall into cynicism. Use this as a lesson in Sadhana.
- Practice Asteya (Non-Stealing): Asteya is a strict Yamas in Yoga. Do not take what isn’t yours - whether it’s temple gold or office supplies.
Yoga Sutras (2.37): “When non-stealing is established, all jewels present themselves to the Yogi.”
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Trust in Divine Justice (Niyati): The exposure of this crime is a form of Shuddhi (purification). The wheels of Dharma grind slowly but finely.
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Separate Vessel from Divinity: A corrupt leader does not tarnish Ayyappa’s glory. Keep your faith focused on the Deity, not the administrator.
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Guard Against Greed: Perform Atma Vichara (self-inquiry). If high-ranking leaders fall due to gold, we must also remain vigilant against compromising Dharma for minor gains.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the Sabarimala gold theft case? A: It involves the misappropriation of gold-plated copper panels from the Sabarimala temple, where officials allegedly falsified records to classify them as mere copper.
Q: Who is A. Padmakumar? A: He is the former President of the Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) and a senior CPI(M) leader, currently in SIT custody for questioning regarding the theft.
Q: What is Deva Dravyam? A: Deva Dravyam translates to “God’s Property.” In Sanatan Dharma, this wealth is sacred and intended solely for the service of the Deity and the preservation of Dharma.
Q: What does the Srimad Bhagavatam say about modern rulers? A: Canto 12.2.13 predicts that in the Kali Yuga, “rulers will become like thieves,” highlighting the decline of ethical leadership.
